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Chapter 55
Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Long Walk to Freedom, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Racism and Division
Negotiation, Democracy, and Progress
Nonviolent Protest vs. Violent Protest
The Value of Optimism
Summary
Analysis
The state presents its case against Mandela from December 1963 through February 29, 1964. Although some of Mandela’s allies have only weak evidence against them and may go free, others fear the possibility of the death penalty. Mandela tries to make a good first impression for the defense as the first witness. Mandela maintains that he is not a communist and believes that all of his political actions have been carefully considered, not rash or violent. He speaks of racial injustice in South Africa, and when he ends, the court is silent. Sisulu follows Mandela and faces harsh cross-examination. Mandela is surprised when the judge suggests that the prosecution has not adequately proved that Mandela and his associates were planning guerilla warfare.
Throughout the whole Rivonia Trial, there is a sense of futility and the idea that no matter what Mandela and his allies say, the government will brand them as dangerous and the court will go along with it. So that is why it’s surprising at the end that a judge suggests that the prosecution have not correctly proven some of their assertions. This vindicates Mandela’s optimistic worldview and shows that it’s worthwhile making an effort even in situations where things seem hopeless. It suggests that even if his efforts at persuasion mostly fall on deaf ears, they are worth it on the chance that they reach someone who is receptive.
Themes
